Swadha Dev Singh, an accomplished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, has emerged as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring civil servants across India. Known for her exceptional dedication to public service and her remarkable achievements, Swadha has carved a niche for herself in the bureaucratic landscape of India. As a 2014-batch IAS officer of the Odisha cadre, she has held several key positions, including District Collector and Magistrate, earning accolades for her innovative approaches and unwavering commitment to societal development.
Early Life and Education
Swadha Dev Singh was born on March 24, 1987, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in North Indian traditions, Swadha was instilled with values of discipline, perseverance, and service from a young age. Her father, Dr. Satya Dev Singh, a former principal of DAV PG College and a prominent academician, played a pivotal role in shaping her intellectual curiosity and commitment to excellence.
Swadha’s early education took place in Varanasi, where she excelled academically, laying a strong foundation for her future endeavors. Her academic brilliance led her to pursue higher education at Lady Shri Ram College for Women, one of the most prestigious institutions under Delhi University. Here, she earned her undergraduate degree in Economics, a subject that honed her analytical skills and deepened her understanding of socio-economic issues. She furthered her education at the Delhi School of Economics, where she completed her postgraduate degree in Economics, equipping her with the knowledge and tools to address complex policy challenges.
Her academic journey reflects her determination to excel, a trait that would later define her success in the highly competitive Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
Cracking the UPSC: A Remarkable Achievement
Swadha Dev Singh’s entry into the Indian Administrative Service is a testament to her resilience and hard work. In 2014, she appeared for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, one of the toughest competitive exams in India, and secured an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 66 on her very first attempt. This remarkable feat, achieved with just two months of intensive preparation, highlights her exceptional intellect and strategic approach to the exam.
Her success in the UPSC exam opened the doors to a prestigious career in civil services, and she was allotted the Odisha cadre. Swadha’s achievement inspired countless aspirants, proving that dedication and focus can yield extraordinary results even under tight timelines.
Career Journey: From Assistant Collector to District Magistrate
Swadha Dev Singh’s career in the IAS began with her appointment as an Assistant Collector in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, where she gained hands-on experience in district administration. Her early tenure was marked by a proactive approach to governance, earning her recognition as a competent and empathetic officer.
In 2014, she was posted as the Additional District Magistrate (ADM) of Rourkela, Odisha, a significant industrial hub. This role allowed her to address urban development challenges and implement policies aimed at improving infrastructure and public services. Her tenure in Rourkela showcased her ability to balance administrative responsibilities with community welfare, setting the stage for her future assignments.
Chief Development Officer in Sultanpur
In 2014, Swadha was appointed as the Chief Development Officer (CDO) of Sultanpur district in Uttar Pradesh. During her tenure, she spearheaded several initiatives focused on education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. Her innovative programs brought tangible improvements to the socio-economic conditions of the region, earning her widespread appreciation.
Fellowship at the University of Cambridge
In 2016, Swadha received an opportunity to enhance her expertise through a prestigious fellowship at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. She pursued a Master’s degree in Public Policy, engaging with global thought leaders and policymakers. This experience enriched her understanding of public administration and equipped her with cutting-edge strategies to address governance challenges in India.
Special Secretary and Agriculture Production Commissioner
Upon returning to India, Swadha continued her impactful work. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, she served as the Special Secretary in the Uttar Pradesh government, holding the title of Agriculture Production Commissioner (APC). In this capacity, she oversaw the implementation of agricultural policies aimed at boosting farm productivity and supporting farmers’ livelihoods, a critical task during a time of economic uncertainty.
District Collector Roles
Swadha’s career progressed with her appointment as District Collector and Magistrate in various districts of Odisha. In September 2020, she was posted as the Collector of Nuapada, a tribal-dominated district, where she focused on improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Her tenure in Nuapada was followed by her transfer to Rayagada in June 2022, where she continues to serve as of March 25, 2025.
One of her most notable achievements came in 2023 when she was honored with the “Bhoomi Samman 2023” award by President Droupadi Murmu. This accolade recognized her exemplary work in the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme, which aimed to digitize land records, reduce disputes, and enhance transparency in land management.
Personal Life: Marriages and Relationships
Swadha Dev Singh’s personal life has garnered attention alongside her professional achievements. She was first married to Chanchal Rana, an IAS officer of the 2014 batch and a fellow Odisha cadre officer. Chanchal, who secured AIR 7 in the UPSC exam, served as the Collector of Balangir and later joined the Indian Oil Corporation. However, their marriage ended in divorce, marking a significant chapter in Swadha’s life.
Following her separation, Swadha married Samarth Verma, an IAS officer currently serving as the Collector of Puri, Odisha. This was also Samarth’s second marriage, reflecting a shared understanding of the demands of civil service life. The couple’s union has been a source of strength as they navigate their high-profile careers together.
Swadha maintains a low profile regarding her family, keeping her parents and personal relationships away from media scrutiny. She resides in government-provided accommodation in Rayagada, where she continues to serve with dedication.
Net Worth and Salary
As an IAS officer with over a decade of service, Swadha Dev Singh’s salary ranges between INR 1 lakh to 2 lakh per month, depending on her grade and allowances. Her net worth is estimated to be between INR 4-5 crore, accumulated through her earnings and assets acquired during her tenure. While financial success is not her primary motivation, her wealth reflects her status as a senior civil servant.
Legacy and Impact
Swadha Dev Singh’s journey is a powerful narrative of grit, intellect, and service. Her contributions to land record digitization, agricultural development, and socio-economic upliftment have left an indelible mark on the regions she has served. As a role model for women in administration, she inspires young aspirants to pursue their dreams relentlessly.
Her recognition at the Bhoomi Samman 2023 event underscores her leadership in modernizing governance through technology.
Top FAQs About Swadha Dev Singh IAS
1. Who is Swadha Dev Singh?
Swadha Dev Singh is a 2014-batch IAS officer of the Odisha cadre, currently serving as the District Collector of Rayagada. She is known for securing AIR 66 in the UPSC exam and receiving the Bhoomi Samman 2023 award.
2. What is Swadha Dev Singh’s educational background?
She holds an undergraduate degree in Economics from Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi University, and a postgraduate degree in Economics from the Delhi School of Economics. She also earned a Master’s in Public Policy from the University of Cambridge.
3. What is the Bhoomi Samman 2023 award?
The Bhoomi Samman 2023 is an award presented by President Droupadi Murmu to recognize outstanding contributions to the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme. Swadha received it for her work in digitizing land records.
4. Who is Swadha Dev Singh’s husband?
Swadha is currently married to Samarth Verma, an IAS officer and the Collector of Puri, Odisha. She was previously married to Chanchal Rana, another IAS officer, but they divorced.
5. Where is Swadha Dev Singh posted as of March 2025?
As of March 25, 2025, Swadha Dev Singh is serving as the Collector and District Magistrate of Rayagada, Odisha.
6. What is Swadha Dev Singh’s net worth?
Her net worth is estimated to be between INR 4-5 crore, based on her salary and assets accumulated as an IAS officer.
7. How did Swadha Dev Singh prepare for the UPSC exam?
Swadha cleared the UPSC exam in her first attempt in 2014 with just two months of preparation, showcasing her exceptional focus and academic foundation.
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